Cucumbers are one of the delights of summer. They are easy to grow and they produce abundant fruit (yes, it's a fruit, not a vegetable). But the problem is they don't freeze well. So in order to keep your cucumbers from going to waste, you need a couple of different ways to prepare and enjoy them. The two recipes here are so easy to make, even children could help prepare them. The recipes are quite distinct from each other: one is creamy and should be eaten within a week, and the other is a pickled recipe that can keep in the refrigerator for months. But one thing about them is the same: both are delicious.
Creamy Cucumber Salad
This recipe is unique for its cubed, chunky use of cucumbers. It can be made seedless if you wish. Just slice the cucumbers lengthwise and then remove the seeds before cubing it. Kids love this dish!
- 3 cucumbers
- 1/4 cup of onion, sliced thinly and diced (optional)
- 1 (8 oz.) carton of sour cream
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Pepper to taste
Wash and peel your cucumbers. Slice them the long way, then slice them again until you have four long quarters. Now cut the strips into cubes or bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix together the rest of the ingredients. Add the cucumbers and mix well. You may serve it immediately. Store it for up to a week in the refrigerator. (See pictures.)
Pickled Cucumbers
Just like mom (or grandma) used to make! These can keep for months in the refrigerator. Try to pick smaller to medium sized cucumbers. The larger they get, the tougher they can get and the bigger and harder the seeds get.
- 7 cups of cucumbers, sliced very thin (peeled or unpeeled, your choice)
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 cup of finely shredded onion
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
Prepare the first three ingredients as listed and set aside. Next, put sugar, vinegar, and salt into a small pot. Bring it to a boil for about 3 minutes and then let the mixture cool. After it is cool, pour it over the first three ingredients and store in a tight container in the refrigerator.
Comments
Cucumbers make a great side dish for lunch or dinner or can be easily pulled from the refrigerator for a quick and healthy snack. Cucumbers are a nice accompaniment to hot and spicy foods, providing a cool balance.
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